The boys are desperate for tickets to one of the `beast shows' at the Games, while Marcus meets Delphine, a fiery activist from Gaul, and Grumio clashes with Landlady, their missing landlord's formidable mother.

When Marcus's parents visit for the weekend, he is keen to keep them and Delphine as far apart as possible. Meanwhile, Stylax pursues a romance with Ursula, one of the Vestal Virgins who guard the city's sacred flame, and Grumio spots a business opportunity.

The boys get cultured when Grumio is cast to play the part of Cupid in a play. Marcus becomes his agent and uses his new connections to impress Delphine, while Stylax understudies the lead actor so he can meet theatre groupies.

As a crime wave sweeps the city, the boys join a Roman military fitness class to protect themselves on the streets. Flavia introduces some dubious new security measures at work. Grumio starts dating Agatha, a talented baker who may well be a feeder.

Marcus and Stylax meet Ramases, a work-experience boy who also happens to be the son of the company owner, and they invent a new office-based sport called jugball. Meanwhile, Grumio samples some gourmet food when he is lent a storecard for the emporium.

When Grumio injures another slave in a fight over a carrot, he is forced to replace him until he recovers. How will he cope in a household where work is taken seriously? Meanwhile, Marcus invites Delphine to move in, but can she bond with Stylax?

The boys meet their new neighbour, a weatherman. Marcus uses the forecast of a small tremor to bring excitement to his relationship with Delphine. Stylax tries his luck with an attractive new colleague, while Grumio discovers Indian food.